In order for us to understand the most important option among these three, let us first check what does these terms mean.
Compostable means that a product is capable of disintegrating into natural elements in a compost environment, leaving no toxicity in the soil. This typically occur in about 90 days. Quite simply, certified compostable is the only option that breaks down into natural components and does not leave harmful micro-plastics in the environment and food chain. .-Google
They are made from natural plant materials in the form of fermented plant starch derived from corn, cassava, sugarcane or sugar beet pulp, potato, tapioca, cellulose, soy protein, lactic acid etc. These are often materials sourced from farming and vegetable industries.
Degradable products do not break down completely and turn into organic material, instead they break apart into microscopic pieces which can still affect the environment.
For example; bin liners and dog waste disposal bags, degradable liners and bags are still made from harmful plastics such as Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Polystyrene and PVC. They are however made from thinner plastic than regular bin liners and bags or may have some kind of additive that aids in degradation. Once again this means that it leaves some harmful micro-plastics in the environment and most likely find their way into the food chain.
Biodegradable products are capable of being broken down (decomposed) rapidly by the action of microorganisms. Biodegradable substances include food scraps, cotton, wool, wood, human and animal waste, manufactured products based on natural materials (such as paper, and vegetable-oil based soaps). -online dictionary.
Although biodegradable materials return to nature and can disappear completely they sometimes leave behind metal or plastic residue.
These terms are used interchangeably. Oftentimes, they can be very confusing.
We need to understand the differences between these commonly used terms, so that everyone can make an informed decision on product purchases. Everything that we buy and use have an impact to our environment.
When you shop for products, Eco Trade Company recommends selecting those certified compostable items just like these products below.
Natural Dish Scrubber
These kitchen scrubbies are loufa veggies, plant-based fibers come with brown paper packaging make them breathable, sustainable, replace all kinds of scrub made from plastic. Toss into compost pile when they're worn out.
The persistent part of the oldest loofah is selected then sewed 4 layers together to make the Loofah dishwasher sponge thick and close enough so that food do not get stuck in it after washing and durable for a year.
Natural loofah is soft in water but hard enough to get the tough stuff done. The more you use it the more it becomes soft - No odor - No sticky oil - Non scratch abrasive- Dry fast.
45 Pack Pulp Fiber Drink Carrier Tray
The sturdy and multi compartment design of these compostable pulp cup carrier allows you to carry four cups or containers ranging from 8-32 oz. The bottom diameter of cup must be 2 5/8" or less to properly fit in the compartment.
Each 4 cup drink carrier is suited for transporting any kind of hot or cold beverages. From hot coffee to chilled soda, every beverage is easy to transport. They are easy to stack too.
Premium Organic 500 Bamboo Cotton Swabs
500 natural sticks per box. Payless packaging, save on product! Twice more organic cotton on the stick tips! Great for ears, travel, babies or everyday cleaning. 100% ecofriendly alternative. Made from renewable bamboo wood and top quality cotton.
Compostable Plant Fiber 9" Plate
Made from unbleached, chlorine free, pesticide free, dye free, natural discarded wheat stalk and bagasse (sugarcane fiber). Material is gluten free - made from the plant stalk not grains. 50 in each case, 9" Plate
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